QUAINT WORDS

Welcome to "Quaint Words!”

These posts will contain thoughts, poems, and prayers from old books that I have found at antique stores, flea markets, and garage sales (with an occasional treasure from a bookstore).

I love the rhythm and sound of the older English language, and am blessed by other believers who have gone before me!

"Look at the great pageant of humanity travelling the Road of Life, halting here, loitering there, peering into the windows of Life in search of Happiness. It struggles up the mountain of success. It stands in the Arena of Fame. It plunges into the mines of Knowledge. It stretches out its palsied hand for the glitter of Wealth. It feasts at the Table of Pleasure, and lo! disappointment - despair!

Am I there?

If so, what a travesty! I can almost hear the hisses and jeering of the crowd...

We were created to know, love, and serve God in this world and to be happy with Him forever in the next. There is no promise of happiness here, but we come as close to happiness as it is possible in this life by working for future happiness, and this means -

Poverty of spirit...

Prayer is a necessity...prayer, is perfect, attractive, holy...

We love individuals tenderly, deeply, magnanimously. We are great powers for good. Our love is gold, fire-tried. Our strength has been crushed in the wine-press of humiliation and has come forth divine. Our sympathy is the blossom of sorrow, and its fragrance soothes all wounds. Our charity is born of God and is without limit.

This is true poverty of spirit...

It all sounds very beautiful, and it is beautiful, but the process is a long one, not because God wills it so...but because our intellects are darkened and our hearts gross...

There is but one remedy - constant communing with the great Teacher. It is impossible - I repeat it, impossible - to commune with Him and remain ignorant of the values of Life...

Once the eye is perfect, all else comes right."

(From "Spiritual Pastels" by J.S.E. c. 1918)

(A listing of books and authors, and also dates of individual postings from those books, will be found on my "QUAINT WORDS" page)

BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"

"FAN THE FLAME" FRIDAY - Gossip

Welcome to "Fan the Flame" Friday.

This is a weekly post that will be "short and sweet" (kinda like me...)

Just a word and a phrase, a sentence or a question...just a little something to "fan the flame" of your creativity!

Today's word: gossip

What do you think gossip is?

Why do you think gossip is so harmful/dangerous?

Let me know what you think!!

"This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you…For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline." (2 Timothy 1:6-7)

BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"

BIRTHDAYS - OH DEAR!

Keep the fire extinguishers handy.

Turn off the smoke alarms.

Yup, this month I had a birthday!

There were...um...*MANY* candles on my birthday cake!

I've been blessed in my life so far – God has been good to me. And I'm very grateful that He saved me at a young age. It's been an interesting faith journey – God and I.

We've walked a convoluted path – sometimes I've wandered, sometimes I've gotten lost. Sometimes we've traveled many miles – sometimes we've just had to stay in one place for a long time. Sometimes the Lord has had to wait for me to catch up – sometimes He's had to wait for me to come back to Him.

There have been valleys and wilderness times. There have been green meadows and peaceful streams. And yes, there's even been some mountaintops.

But always, always – He's been there. Every step of the way.

So...I ponder.

What's it like at this point in my life?

You know, when we're young, we've got the world by the tail. We feel invincible, unstoppable. There doesn't seem to be anything we can't do. We're fresh and idealistic – and yes, sometimes a bit naïve.

We have the greatest and most glorious plans.

But, sadly, most of them do not pan out.

When we reach our middle years, we often wonder how we got where we are. We're wearied and realistic – and yes, sometimes a bit cynical.

Many of us hit middle age a bit disillusioned.

So here's my question – have we focused on what's really important?

We may be older – but are we wiser?

When we're young, it's easy to rush from one goal to another – tyrannized by the urgent. We sometimes forget to enjoy life while frantically pursuing it.

At some point, we stop and realize a few things.

We can't always trust our finances.

We can't always trust our health.

We can't always trust our friends.

We can't always trust ourselves.

Where do we turn?

We turn toward Another. We turn toward a Consultant. We turn to the LORD'S counsel.

We need His direction. We need Him.

So, this is what it's like at this point in my life.

I am searching for God – intensely, determinedly, purposefully, single-mindedly. I have come to the realization that there's nothing else that's more important.

I search His Word and find that some of the things that seemed so important at another time in my life – aren't. And some things that I might have deemed trivial are vital in God's view.

Money, prestige, power, possessions – measuring sticks of our culture.

God shakes His head at our compulsive and fruitless pursuit of these things.

They're not wrong – they're just not central.

So, at this point in my life – I'm going back to the basics. I want to discover God's purposes. I want to pursue them with my whole heart. I want my plans to follow His leading…

I want Him.

"Sharon, is it really just Me?"

"Yes, Lord – it really is."

"You can make many plans, but the LORD'S purpose will prevail."

(Proverbs 19:21)

"You must be careful to obey all the commands of the LORD your God, following his instructions in every detail. Stay on the path that the LORD you God has commanded you to follow." (Deuteronomy 5:32-33)

"'For I know the plans I have for you,' says the LORD. 'They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope…If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. I will be found by you,' says the LORD." (Jeremiah 29:11, 13)

"Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, find. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened." (Matthew 7:7)

"'And you must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.'" (Mark 12:30)

(Thoughts based on devotional from "The One Year Daily Insights with Zig Ziglar" c. 2009)

BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"

PEP TALK FROM GOD

O LORD, no one but You can help powerless me against the mighty enemy!

Help me, Lord, for I trust in You alone.

It is in Your name that I have come up against this battle.

Sharon, I will stay with you.

Whenever you seek Me, you will find Me.

Whenever you are are in trouble, turn to Me!

Seek Me out, and you will find Me.

Be strong and courageous, for your work will be rewarded.

My eyes are searching the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Me.

You are powerful and mighty - no one can stand against You!

I can cry out to You to save me, and You will hear me and rescue me.

O God, won't You stop them?

I am powerless against this mighty army that is about to attack me.

I don't know what to do, but I'm looking to You for help.

Sharon, do not be afraid!

Don't be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but Mine.

Tomorrow, march out against them.

But you will not even need to fight.

Take your position, then stand still and watch My victory!

Do not be afraid or discouraged.

Go out against them, for I am with you!

Believe in Me, the LORD your God, and you will be able to stand firm.

I stand in Your Power, Lord - resolute, determined, strong.

I have not abandoned You.

You are with me.

You are my Leader.

You are my God.

I bow in humble adoration and proclaim:

GIVE THANKS TO THE LORD - FOR HIS FAITHFUL LOVE ENDURES FOREVER!

(From 2 Chronicles 20)

BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"

THE UNTOUCHABLES

The Untouchables.

That would be you and me.

I was inspired by a recent post written by a dear sister in the Lord, Sandra – "God Shut the Door" posted on April 13, 2011 – (I'd encourage you to visit her blog, you’ll be mightily blessed indeed!)

In it, she talked about how we are *shut in* by the Lord.

Her first Scripture reference came from Genesis, about how it was God that shut the door to the ark. He closed the door on those He wanted to keep safe…

"Then the LORD closed the door behind them." (Genesis 7:16)

It got me thinking.

It is this way with us, too.

We are being held safe for our glorious future. We are being held strong for salvation. We are being held secure against anything and anyone who would attempt to snatch us away from God.

Not gonna happen!

Is this not the perfect antidote to all the worries of the world?!

Many things can happen to my finances, my health, my influence, my possessions – many things can steal my safety, my strength, my security…in this life.

And the enemy throws all he's got against me – doesn't he do it to you, too?

He can even kill my body – but he'll never, ever get my soul!

It's sealed – it's safe, and strong, and secure. It's been *shut in* by the hand of the Lord.

I have been greatly encouraged by this fact. God protects me – the very heart of me – the real me.

He says to me – "Don't be afraid of those who threaten you. They cannot touch your soul. It belongs to Me."

Shut in – sealed – safe and secure.

Nothing can shake God's love or dislodge His Spirit from within me.

Yes, I still feel the waves of turmoil incessantly battering against me. Yes, the wailing winds of difficulty still howl unmercifully. I am rocked and tossed and thrown about.

Sometimes I just feel like hunkering down in the dark and battening down the hatches.

But my ship steers steady and true to its ultimate destination. The Captain of My Soul keeps me on course.

And until I arrive in that Heavenly port, I am *shut in* – protected by the strong and sure hands of the Covenant Keeper – and I am safe.

How does God make you feel secure?

BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"

IF GOD IS GREAT...

God is great.

God is good.

I've heard that all of my life – haven't you?

But do I really believe it???

As far as God being great…Absolutely. Unequivocally. Without a doubt.

All I have to do is look through a microscope or a telescope to figure that out.

Is He good?

Well, honestly, that’s where I stumble a bit…

Why?

Because if God is great, He is able. That means He can do anything. But…what happens when He doesn't?

If He can, and He doesn't (He won't?), then is He good?

Struggle…

In the realm of human relationships, when we have a need and someone knows it, and they don't help us, then we're…Disappointed. Hurt. Angry.

And honestly?

That IS how I feel about God sometimes.

The enemy's math?

God can + God doesn't (He won't) = God doesn't care.

I can't conclude that…and why not? Because...

The enemy's words + my sinful nature = A LIE.

So…

If I truly believe that God is great, then His definition of good must be different than mine. It must be better than mine.

OK –

My part in the matter?

Trusting in God's ABILITY – determining in my heart that He CAN.

Whether or not He WILL or WILL NOT is a matter of His sovereignty.

That's His part.

He does love me – He really does!

All I have to do is look at the cross to figure that out.

New math:

God is great + God is good = Trust Him.

I have to believe that – I will choose to believe that…

How about you?

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do…" (Proverbs 3:5-6)

"And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them."

(Romans 8:28)

"Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen."

(Ephesians 3:20-21)

BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"

BIBLE PICK 'EMS - Remember Me

Setting: A garden.

Speaker: A disciple.

Time: About two thousand years ago…

"He is risen.

He is risen indeed."

Today I sit in astonishment at the entrance to an empty tomb. I've been here for a couple of hours, ever since Mary came rushing into the room where we were hiding. She had the most preposterous story! Jesus' body was gone – vanished! These were the very words she shouted – at least after she was able to catch her breath…

Peter and John ran to the tomb. They didn’t come back.

So, I decided to check things out for myself. Hey, they don't call me "Doubting Thomas" for nothing, you know!

She was right – Jesus' body isn’t here. I’m puzzled…confused…scared.

It was just the other day that we were celebrating the Passover meal with Him. We met in quite a large room – it was already set up!

Jesus was rather quiet. And He said some disturbing things.

He said one of us would betray Him.

Yes, it's true – Judas did sell him out. But, we all betrayed Him in our own way. We all ran when He needed us the most. And when He was crucified, I was hiding.

Like the coward that I am.

But, the strangest thing of all that He said was this (Today’s "Bible Pick 'Ems"):

"As they were eating, Jesus took some bread and blessed it. Then he broke it into pieces and gave it to his disciples, saying, 'Take it, for this is my body.' And he took a cup of wine and gave thanks to God for it. He gave it to them, and they all drank from it. And he said to them, 'This is my blood, which confirms the covenant between God and his people. It is poured out as a sacrifice for many.'" (Mark 14:22-24)

I've been puzzling over these words ever since.

And now I'm sitting here trying to figure the whole thing out –

Eight days later…

OK, I thought I was confused before – now I really am! Now all my friends claim they have seen Jesus – alive, and in the flesh.

I told them, "I won’t believe it unless I see the nail wounds in his hands, put my fingers into them, and place my hand into the wound in his side."

They were terribly frustrated with me – accused me of having no faith. They're probably right. But, I want to have faith – I want to believe. It just all seems so impossible.

So now we're gathered together again. They're excited. I’m forlorn. Oh, would that it was true!! Dare I even hope???

"Peace be with you."

I look up. Is it Him??? It's HIM!!!

I'm suddenly overcome with fear and awe and joy – all at the same time. I fall to my face on the ground.

Then He turns to me.

"Thomas, put your finger here, and look at My hands. Put your hand into the wound in My side. Don’t be faithless any longer. Believe!"

And I do.

"My Lord and my God!" I exclaim.

Today is Easter Sunday, dear friends. It is a day of joyous celebration. Today our precious Jesus rose from the dead. Having completed His purpose on this earth, having sacrificed His life for us, having borne all the sins of the world on His bloodied shoulders – He now rose in triumph from the grave!!

He defeated sin – He defeated death. He defeated our enemy.

IT. IS. FINISHED.

"Do this in remembrance of Me."

Oh Lord, we will remember You today – and we will remember You every day.

We will never forget You, or what You did for us.

For You remember us…

"See, I have written your name on the palms of my hands." (Isaiah 49:16)

"I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me, for my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand."

(John 10:28-29)

"When in doubt, search God out!"

QUAINT WORDS

Welcome to "Quaint Words!”

These posts will contain thoughts, poems, and prayers from old books that I have found at antique stores, flea markets, and garage sales (with an occasional treasure from a bookstore).

I love the rhythm and sound of the older English language, and am blessed by other believers who have gone before me!

"If I think of God as a Judge, and myself as a sinner, I need the blood of the cross to bring me into His presence, in the way of righteousness. I must fully understand [that] every claim which God, the righteous Judge, had upon me, a guilty sinner, has been divinely answered, and eternally settled, by "the precious blood of Christ."

This gives me soul peace.

I see that, through that blood, God can be "just and justifier of him which believeth in Jesus."

...the whole question of sin was fully gone into and perfectly settled between God and Christ, amid the deep and awful solitudes of Calvary.

Thus my load is taken off; my weight removed; my guilt cancelled; I can breathe freely; I have perfect peace; there is literally nothing against me; I am as free as the blood of Christ can make me...

This, in itself, is ineffably precious to every sin-burdened heart...

God is my Father, and I am His child...

We could no more earn a place in the heart of the Father, than we could satisfy the claims of the righteous Judge. All is of free grace. The Father has begotten us; and the Judge has found a ransom.

We are debtors to grace for both the one and the other."

(From "Things New and Old" by Anonymous, c. 1859)

(A listing of books and authors, and also dates of individual postings from those books, will be found on my "QUAINT WORDS" page)

BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"

"FAN THE FLAME" FRIDAY - Good

Welcome to "Fan the Flame" Friday.

This is a weekly post that will be "short and sweet" (kinda like me...)

Just a word and a phrase, a sentence or a question...just a little something to "fan the flame" of your creativity!

Today's word: good

What do you think makes Good Friday good?

How do you think God's definition of good differs from ours?

Let me know what you think!!

"This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you…For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline." (2 Timothy 1:6-7)

BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"

THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN

Seven.

Lucky number 7.

God's perfect number.

The Bible records the last seven statements of Jesus on the cross. I thought it would be interesting to explore them today.

1. "Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing." (Luke 23:34)

The cross was the culmination of a terribly stressful week. Authorities had been looking for a way to kill Jesus. One of His trusted friends had betrayed Him. Another had denied Him. The rest of them had run away when He was arrested. He was completely alone. If anyone had reason to be bitter – it was Jesus. And yet, the completely Innocent One turned instinctively to His Father and prayed for all those people.

What does Jesus' gracious prayer of forgiveness mean to you?

2. "I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise." (Luke 23:43)

Three men hung on three crosses. Two of them deserved to be there. They taunted the "King of the Jews" hanging between them. And yet, one of the men began to see things differently – He saw who Jesus was. He turned to Him and asked to be remembered. Jesus didn't make this moment of salvation theologically complicated, or personally difficult – no, He just spoke an unmistakable, clear promise that because the man believed, he would be saved.

How does this promise affect your perspective about death?

3. "Dear woman, here is your son." And He said to His disciple, "Here is your mother." (John 19:26-27)

Was Jesus self-absorbed in His own struggle, His own suffering? No, even at the end, in His supreme moment of agony, His tenderness shone like a beacon to everyone at the foot of the cross. Suspended between life and death, Heaven and earth, Jesus did not think of Himself. He took care of those He loved – and at the same time, He was taking care of us.

In times of crisis, do we withdraw, or do we reach out?

4. "My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?" (Matthew 27:46)

Jesus was not a good man who died for a cause. He wasn't a soldier who died for his buddy next to Him in battle. He wasn't a misunderstood martyr or a teacher who said the wrong things. He was Almighty God. God who stepped out of Heaven and came to earth for one purpose only – to give His life for you and me. Jesus took our place. He wore the dirty clothes of our sins. He became the ultimate Sacrificial Lamb – once, for all, for always. And in that moment, God had to turn His back on His beloved Son. Jesus experienced all the wrath, judgment, and penalty for every sin – He experienced it alone.

What does this moment tell you about Jesus' grace and love for you?

5. "I am thirsty." (John 19:28)

After all He had gone through, you might expect that Jesus would have been incoherent, delirious, not in His right mind. But, He maintained an unclouded focus. As a student of Scripture, He knew what the prophets had predicted. He knew that the Messiah's death would produce a dry mouth – "My tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth" – Psalm 22:15. He knew that those attending the execution would offer "sour wine for my thirst" – Psalm 69:21. John tells us that Jesus was acutely aware of every detail of His crucifixion. As the moment of His death neared, Jesus made sure that not a single detail would be overlooked. He would finish and fulfill all the prophecies made about Him – He would make the final statement – Yes, I AM the Messiah.

How do these fulfilled prophecies strengthen our faith?

6. "It is finished." (John 19:30)

Jesus' death on the cross was fast by crucifixion standards. Usually, people lingered in agony for days. But Jesus, already weakened by blood loss because of His beatings and flogging, died quickly. This phrase is a translation of a Greek phrase that means "paid in full." Yes, Jesus paid the price. Totally. Completely. And in this moment, in this statement, Jesus proclaimed the humbly jubilant truth – "I have done what I came to do. I have borne the sins of the world. I have brought salvation to all people." We can never do enough to win God’s approval – we can never bridge the gap between a holy God and sin-filled people. Jesus did what we couldn't do. He bought us reconciliation with the shedding of His blood.

Do you ever let trying to be good enough affect your relationship with God?

7. "Father, I entrust my spirit into your hands!" (Luke 23:46)

Now, in the last seconds of His earthly life, Jesus expressed His utter and total trust in His Father. Having felt abandonment, He still believed that God was there. God still cared. God would take care of Him. And with those last words, He breathed His last. Jesus gave up His Spirit. He rested in the promises of His Father's words – that this moment was NOT the end of the story. How do we react when it seems as if God has led us into a dark place? Are we tempted to despair? Do we consider giving up? Do we angrily blame God? In those times, especially in those times, we can follow the example of Jesus. Acknowledge the unseen and unfelt presence of God, and express our trust in Him. "Father, I am in Your hands."

What can happen when we acknowledge that we are in God's hands, even when we can't see His hand at work?

Seven.

Perfect seven – the seven last words of our glorious Savior until He returns again.

The moment when He will shout these words:

"I am the Alpha and the Omega – the Beginning and the End – I am the One who is, who always was, and who is still to come – the Almighty One!"

The ultimate victory is eternity with Jesus Christ. – Zig Ziglar

You can trust the man who died for you. – Lettie Cowman

(Based on studies from "The One Year Daily Insights with Zig Ziglar"

by Zig Ziglar and Dwight "Ike" Reighard, c. 2009)

BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"

PAUL TELLS IT LIKE IT IS

Dear fellow believers,

We are God's ambassadors.

Because we understand our fearful responsibility to the Lord, we work hard to persuade others.

If it seems we are crazy, it is to bring glory to God.

And if we are in our right minds, it is for your benefit.

Either way, Christ's love controls us.

Since we believe that Christ died for all, we also believe that we have all died to our old life.

He died for everyone so that those who receive His new life will no longer live for themselves.

Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them.

So we have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view.

At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view.

How differently we know Him now!

This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person.

The old life is gone – a new life has begun!

And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to Himself through Christ.

For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to Himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them.

And He gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation.

So, God is making His appeal through us.

We speak for Christ when we plead, "Come back to God!"

For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ.

That, my friends, is very Good News indeed!

Spread the Word – Easter is on the horizon!!

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Spirit be with you all.

Paul

(From 2 Corinthians 5 & 13)

BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"

ASLAN, MY HERO

Aslan.

The beloved hero of C.S. Lewis’ cherished children’s book, "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe."

Aslan is Jesus.

My hero.

The first time I heard about Aslan was when I was about 22. I was attending a college summer camp. The speaker wove stories about Aslan into his wonderful talks. I was enraptured.

But I have a confession to make.

I've been a Christian since I was about 3 ½ years old – all my life. But I had always felt a little bit (a lot) guilty because I never FELT the horror of the crucifixion. I had head knowledge that it was awful, and I believed it – and all that it stood for – with my whole heart. But somehow it hadn't quite reached my emotions.

Until this quiet summer night at camp.

The speaker told us how Aslan had been shamed and humiliated – how his kingly mane had been shorn. How all the evil cohorts of the White Witch cackled and jeered – taunting the majestic Lion who had willingly become meek as a lamb.

And then, the White Witch killed the great Lion with her knife.

The speaker paused…

I was in tears. For the first time, I felt the tremendous depth of what Jesus' death had been like. I felt the shame, the horror, the grief, the pain.

A Lion's story had reached my heart.

Later this week, we remember Good Friday. A day when the Lion of Judah became a lamb – the sacrificial Lamb of God.

It's a day that makes me grieve – a day that makes me sad – a day that I feel in my heart of hearts.

A day when the worst that mankind could do – happened. The Son of God was murdered, on a criminal’s cross – shamed and humiliated, taunted and jeered.

His mane shorn off, He quietly accepted the culmination of His mission on earth.

He died…for us.

Praise the Lord, it was not the end of the story!

Aslan rose from the dead!!

You see, there was a Deeper Magic from before the Dawn of Time. The Witch had not known of this.

But Aslan did – Jesus did.

"…when a willing victim who had committed no treachery was killed in a traitor's stead, the Table would crack and Death itself would start working backward."

I am that traitor.

But, because of the Great Sacrifice – death is now working backward in me!!

I hope you love C. S. Lewis as much as I do. And I would encourage you to read his Chronicles of Narnia – maybe for the first time, maybe once again. Each story in the series brings meaning and practical knowledge to the reader.

However, Lewis' greatest contribution to Christianity, in my opinion, is that he turns people toward the heart of Jesus, our Aslan. He inspires love, commitment, courage, and faith –

He reveals to us a Savior who isn't safe, but He's good…

BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"

WHERE IS GOD HIDDEN?

Lonely moments.

Do you ever pray and feel like the ceiling answers back?

HELLO???

Is there anybody out there?

You cry out to the Lord, and you can hear the echo of your own voice – resounding off the deep valley walls of loneliness.

I’ve often wondered why God seems silent and hidden when I need Him the most.

Have you?

I ponder this all the time.

I wrote a poem several years ago, during a lonely time of wondering…

WHERE IS GOD HIDDEN?

Where is God hidden?

Is He high in the sky?

Or as close as a tear,

As close as a sigh?

Is He as far as the cosmos

A billion miles away?

Or a part of each breath

As I go on my way?

Is He some heavenly spirit

Somewhere distant, apart?

Or as much of my being

As each beat of my heart?

Does He watch the world spin

From some unearthly post?

Or infuse every moment

With the power of His Ghost?

Does He watch, does He see

Does He care what goes on?

Or is He joined with me daily

In a miraculous bond?

Sometimes He's silent

And I can't always tell,

If the world is on track

Or running pell-mell –

How I wish He would touch me

With His arms, with His face,

In ways so completely

Every doubt would erase…

But God remains hidden

His presence seems dim,

Sometimes when I cry out

I can't seem to reach Him.

I know of His glory

And His immeasurable grace,

But sometimes He seems missing

And gone with no trace.

Where is God hidden?

Sometimes I scream out,

Who are You really

What are You all about?

He answers.

Won't You listen?

Can't you see?

I'm a baby in a manger

A boy learning life,

A man being tempted

A man facing strife.

I've felt what you feel

Every joy, every pain,

I gave up My life

So your love I could gain.

I have not forsaken

You are never alone,

I am Creator and Father

You are one of My own.

You are held in My hand

Through the blood of My Son,

In a communion so eternal

It can NOT be undone.

Oh, Lord.

I am quiet and humbled

By the power of His Word,

My questions were so human

That the truth was obscured –

So where is God hidden?

He's here, in my heart,

Directing my pathways

As He has from the start.

Where is God hidden?

He's not! Don't you see?

The Most High of the Universe

Dwells within me.

© Sharon Kirby

October 4, 2000

Yes, He is here – as close as a heartbeat…

BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"

BIBLE PICK 'EMS - I Love A Parade

I was so excited.

I had stayed up all night, camped out on the street, and it was just moments before the beginning of…

The Tournament of Roses Parade!

This is a beautiful parade that happens every year on January 1st. And it's quite a spectacle to watch on TV. But, let me tell you, being there in person is another thing entirely!

It's hard to explain the excitement of the people, the sounds and smells, the beauty of the floats with their myriad rainbows of colorful seeds and flowers. I stayed out with a group from church just once in college. But I'm so glad that I did. It was memorable…

I was reminded of that beautiful morning because today is Palm Sunday. The day of Jesus' triumphal entry into the city of Jerusalem.

Picture yourself there – surrounded by people from all walks of life. It was the beginning of Holy Week, and the roads into Jerusalem were thronging with pilgrims. Can you hear the many voices of the crowd – murmuring or laughing, talking excitedly among themselves? Are you jostled along with the animals, stopping here and there for a bite to eat? Can you see and smell the surrounding countryside?

Can you imagine the anticipation in the crowd when they heard that Jesus – whom many believed was the long-awaited Messiah, the Promised One who would deliver their nation – was arriving in the Holy City?

"Where is He?"

"He’s just up ahead."

"Is He coming this way?"

"YES!"

People scrambled for position (just like we did on that parade route) – trying to get the best vantage point to see – to see HIM!

He enters on a donkey – and people push and shove to throw their cloaks on the road ahead of Him. Palm branches are waved and strewn about in honor of the approaching King. Jesus was the center of the procession, and the people all around Him were shouting:

"Praise God for the Son of David!

Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the LORD!

Praise God in highest heaven!"

It's one thing to read about it in the Bible – being there in person must have been another thing entirely!

And then – less than one week later – Jesus was hanging on a criminal’s cross.

Anticipation – then incredible, dashing hopelessness…

The anguished cry echoed in every heart – WHY?

Today's "Bible Pick ‘Ems" sheds light – because it tells us what the Light of the World did on that day:

"You lived in this world without God, and without hope. But now you have been united with Christ Jesus. Once you were far away from God, but now you have been brought near to him through the blood of Christ. For Christ himself has brought peace to us. He united Jews and Gentiles into one people when, in his own body on the cross, he broke down the wall that separated us…Together as one body, Christ reconciled both groups to God by means of his death on the cross…Now all of us can come to the Father through the same Holy Spirit because of what Christ has done for us." (Ephesians 2:12-14, 16, 18)

The Prince of Peace arrived that day – not the conquering king, but the Suffering Servant.

The One who brought hope to all the peoples of the earth.

The One who still does…

"Look, your king is coming to you.

He is righteous and victorious,

Yet he is humble, riding on a donkey…

His realm will stretch from sea to sea and…to the ends of the earth."

(Zechariah 9:9-10)

Bless the One who comes in the name of the LORD!!

"When in doubt, search God out!"

QUAINT WORDS

Welcome to "Quaint Words!"

These posts will contain thoughts, poems, and prayers from old books that I have found at antique stores, flea markets, and garage sales (with an occasional treasure from a bookstore).

I love the rhythm and sound of the older English language, and am blessed by other believers who have gone before me!

"All hail the power of Jesus' name!

Let angels prostrate fall;

Bring forth the royal diadem,

To crown Him Lord of all!

Let high-born seraphs tune the lyre,

And, as they tune it, fall

Before His face who tunes their choir,

And crown Him Lord of all!

Crown Him ye morning stars of light

Who fix'd this floating ball;

Now hail the Strength of Israel's might,

And crown Him Lord of all!

Crown Him ye martyrs of your God,

Who from His altar call;

Extol the stem of Jesse's rod,

And crown Him Lord of all!

Ye seed of Israel's chosen race,

Ye ransom'd of the fall,

Hail Him who saves you by His grace,

And crown Him Lord of all!

Hail Him, ye heirs of David's line,

Whom David Lord did call,

The God incarnate, man divine,

And crown Him Lord of all!

Sinners whose love can ne'er forget

The wormwood and the gall,

Go spread your trophies at His feet,

And crown Him Lord of all!

Let every tribe and every tongue

That bound creation's call,

Now shout, in universal song,

The crowned Lord of all!"

(From "The Changed Cross" by Henry Altemus, c. 1897)

(A listing of books and authors, and also dates of individual postings from those books, will be found on my "QUAINT WORDS" page)

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"FAN THE FLAME" FRIDAY - Modesty

Welcome to "Fan the Flame" Friday.

This is a weekly post that will be "short and sweet" (kinda like me...)

Just a word and a phrase, a sentence or a question...just a little something to "fan the flame" of your creativity!

Today's word: modesty

What does the word modesty mean to you?

Do you think our society values modesty anymore? Why or why not?

Let me know what you think!!

(Please visit my friend Wendy's blog - Faith's Firm Foundation. She is doing a wonderful series on "Modesty" - you'll be blessed!)

"This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you…For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline." (2 Timothy 1:6-7)

BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"

A NEW DANCE

About 10 days ago, my brother-in-law had an accident.

He fell off his motorcycle while driving to work.

Early one dark morning, as he was changing lanes, a huge rock crossed his path – and he went down.

He broke his pelvis in five places…

Praise God, he is home – but it’s a struggle – a BIG struggle.

He didn’t need surgery – but, he can’t put ANY weight on his legs at all. This means my sister has turned into a burro…

She is the one her husband literally has to lean on.

Last week, I got this wonderful email from her. I just had to pass it on:

"We are doing ok-just trying to settle in to our new adventure. Let's just say, "we are learning a new dance." At first we were sort of bumbling around, and each day we get better at communicating to each other, and now I know what he needs and how to do it. I was thinking last night as I was helping him with his walker to go to the bathroom that it is sort of like a dance-a dance I don't necessarily want to learn, but all the same, a dance. And what is neat is the good Lord has orchestrated this dance for us to learn, and if I fight it, then I will never learn the dance that He has purposed for our lives."

Is my sister just the best, or what?!

I thought about her whole word picture of doing a dance.

It’s so true, isn’t it?

Life is one big dance with God.

Much of the time we try to lead, and end up stepping all over His feet. Sometimes we don’t follow His moves, and we fall down (Kirstie Alley – just sayin’). Sometimes it’s next to impossible to learn the steps – we get tired, and frustrated, and we want to give up.

Sometimes we’re trying to dance a fast dance, and He’s trying to teach us how to waltz.

I loved what my sister said – He has a purpose to His dance.

And when we fight it, we don’t learn it.

The secret is yielding to His lead.

Here’s some wonderful stuff I learned from Wikipedia:

"In partner dancing, the two dance partners are never equal. One must be the Lead and the other will be the Follow.

The Lead is responsible for choosing appropriate steps to suit the music…and leading the Follow by hand…to complete the chosen steps smoothly and safely...

The degree to which the Lead 'controls' the dance (and, by implication, "controls" the Follow) depends on…dancer sensitivity.

…this relationship might better be understood as a conversation between partners, with each contributing to the style and mood of the dance through their connection…the lead's complete control of the follow, and the follow's relinquishing a greater degree of creative or expressive autonomy...

For the Lead and Follow to interact with each other, communication needs to occur between the dance couple…More advanced dancers will take many cues from each other through this connection, with the Follow using it to communicate feedback to the Lead just as the Lead uses it to suggest moves to their partner. The most accomplished dancers use connection as a line of communication which allows the lead to incorporate the follow's ideas, abilities, and creative suggestions into their own styling and selection of moves.

…the lead's steps differ from the follow's…the follow generally "mirrors" the lead's footwork."

Can you see the spiritual truths in there?!

My sister and her husband are learning a "new dance" – and knowing them, they’re doing a great job of it.

But they are also teaching me a valuable lesson.

God is orchestrating His dance, too.

And I must not fight it.

God leads, we follow – it’s the only way it works.

BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"

TREASURE IN CLAY JARS

The Lord makes us more and more like Him as we are changed into His glorious image.

We preach that Jesus Christ is Lord.

And we are servants for Jesus’ sake.

God has made His Light shine in our hearts so we can know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ.

But we are like fragile clay jars.

This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not ourselves.

We are pressed on every side by troubles – but we are NOT crushed.

We are perplexed – but NOT driven to despair.

We are hunted down – but NEVER abandoned by God.

We get knocked down – but we are NOT destroyed.

Through suffering, we continue to share in the death of Jesus.

But, the life of Jesus will be evident in our dying bodies.

We know that God, who raised the Lord Jesus, will also raise us with Jesus and present us to Himself.

That is why we NEVER GIVE UP.

Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day.

For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long.

Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever!

So don’t look at the troubles.

Rather, let us fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen.

For we live by believing and not by seeing.

For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last FOREVER!

(Taken from 2 Corinthians 3 & 4)

BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"

TAKE MY CHILDREN, PLEASE

Motherhood.

One of the most wonderful, challenging, and rewarding experiences of life.

I was not prepared for the joys my sons would bring me. However, there were many experiences that were difficult for me, and I was not prepared for those either. And each stage of development brings a new degree of separation.

I've had a hard time letting them go.

I have not dealt well with my feelings. I know that I am holding on too tightly, and that this has become a spiritual battle for me.

God, I know You have something to say to me.

He led me to the word – abandon.

There are many definitions of the word abandon that include negative ideas of desertion. But there are other connotations that totally capture the idea of what God wants me to understand.

To enthusiastically, exuberantly give up the control of another – to give oneself over unrestrainedly.

Here at last is the message God has for me.

He is seeking the attitude behind the action.

My unwillingness to give up my sons is motivated by fear. I am afraid something will happen to them.

Bad influences, terrible mistakes, painful experiences, heartache, illness, even death lurks out there in the real world.

How can I relinquish or surrender my sons to those things?

But God, in His loving kindness, opened my mind to a wonderful truth.

God is not asking me to let go of my sons to the world. What He wants is for me to release them into His care, to be watched over by His hand, to be let loose to accomplish His purposes in their lives.

He does not want me to fear the world, but to trust Him.

He wants me to trust His perfect love for my sons – the love that died on a cross for them – the love that rose again to give them eternal life.

He wants me to abandon them to Him with joy.

The Creator of Life, and the Giver of Eternal Life will watch over my sons with infinite more care than I am capable of doing.

This is the attitude He is seeking.

Total abandonment with no restraint or fear – abandonment with enthusiasm and exuberance with joy.

The reward?

Peace that passes human understanding from the Author of all blessings.

Lord, help me do this – completely.

Let me be like Hannah, the mother of Samuel, and Jochebed, the mother of Moses. Both released their sons to uncertain futures, but rested blessedly assured as to WHO held that future.

And look what God accomplished!

Oh Lord, make me able to pray, "Therefore I have given him to the Lord; as long as he lives he is given to the Lord."

AMEN!

Do you have trouble letting go of your children?

BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"

UPSIDE DOWN GRATITUDE

I’ve been thinking about gratitude.

What exactly does it mean to be grateful?

The dictionary defines the word this way:

Having a due sense of benefits received; kindly disposed toward one from whom a favor has been received; willing to acknowledge and repay, or give thanks for, benefits.

OK, I get that.

It’s rather easy to be grateful for benefits.

I’m always kindly disposed toward someone who does me a favor.

I’m often motivated to pay them back something good in return.

And sure, when God does something wonderful for me, I’m grateful. I feel all close and snuggly to Him – tucked in close. I smile at Him, and I want to serve Him with all of my heart.

It’s human nature to feel that way.

But God has called me to something bigger than human nature. He has called me to be like Him.

And sometimes that requires upside-down gratitude.

"Be thankful in ALL circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus." (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

ALL – a pesky word…

You know, on first reading, I was impressed with the fact that it is God’s will for us to be thankful in all circumstances.

However, I read another possible meaning hidden in there.

We are to be thankful for all things BECAUSE those very things are God’s will for us.

Nothing happens outside of His watch. He is never surprised by anything that happens to us. The good and the bad things are working toward His ultimate purposes.

We have promise after promise in His Word that tells us these things.

But oh, living them out in practice is so very hard, isn’t it?

So, what are some things that aren't so wonderful in my life? God commands me to be thankful for those things, too.

The car that breaks down.

The sickness that sidelines me.

The person who continually rubs me the wrong way.

The nagging headache.

The surmounting bills to pay.

The struggles and difficulties of my family.

The spiritual battles.

How on earth can I find thanks for those things?

Because – it is these things that drive me to my knees. It is these things that turn my face upward. It is these things that make me understand…

I am not in charge.

That is God's will for me. To learn that He ordains every step of my way. To learn that everything in my life arrives only after being filtered through His sovereignty and providence. To learn that He is working out His purposes, through the good things and the bad.

To learn that I have nothing and no one else in life to depend on fully, except for Him.

And, at the end of the day, I’m so very grateful for that…

What do you have trouble being grateful for?

BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"

BIBLE PICK 'EMS - A Tribute to You

I get by with a little help from my friends.

Great lyrics – great truth.

You know, God is doing an amazing work out in Blog Land. He is using the tool of blogging to connect His Body with each other – across time, across the miles – sometimes across the ocean – all around the world.

It is a tremendous support network.

I know – because all of you have been wonderful.

Supportive, encouraging, inspiring. I don’t know what I'd do without you!

Today's "Bible Pick ‘Ems" reminded me of how grateful I am for fellow believers who stand alongside me, who fight with me, and who uphold me:

"We sent [Timothy] to strengthen you, to encourage you in your faith, and to keep you from being shaken by the troubles you were going through. But you know that you are destined for such trouble…That is why…I sent Timothy to find out if your faith was still strong. I was afraid that the tempter had gotten the best of you…" (1 Thessalonians 3:2-5)

First-century Christians came face to face with persecution. Whether in the hands of zealous Jews, angry Greeks, or ruthless Roman authorities, they faced stonings, beatings, crucifixions, torture, and death.

To be a follower of Christ meant to give up everything…

The church at Thessalonica was very young – it had been established only two or three years before Paul wrote this letter to them. They were being persecuted – and Paul, like their spiritual father in the faith, was concerned about them.

Paul was unable to return to Thessalonica. So he sent Timothy to encourage them – to exhort them to be strong in their faith.

And Timothy came home with a wonderful message:

"But now Timothy has just returned, bringing us good news about your faith and love…So we have been greatly encouraged in the midst of our troubles and suffering, dear brothers and sisters, because you have remained strong in your faith. It gives us new life to know that you are standing firm in the Lord."

(1 Thessalonians 3:6-8)

This is how I feel about all of you.

I am greatly encouraged by your love. I am emboldened by your truthful witness. I am upheld by your words and prayers.

Your strong faith strengthens mine!

And isn’t that what it’s all about?

God using each of us to help each other. The Body working together to accomplish God’s purposes.

Helping our fellow warriors to stand firm, to hold on tightly to our swords, and to fight against the tempter – boldly, firmly, and with resolute determination.

So, thank you – for all you've done to help me on my journey. For laughing with me, and crying with me – for standing alongside me through the ups and downs.

To paraphrase 1 Thessalonians 3:9 –

"How I thank God for you! Because of you I have great joy as I enter God’s presence."

"When in doubt, search God out!"

QUAINT WORDS

Welcome to "Quaint Words!”

These posts will contain thoughts, poems, and prayers from old books that I have found at antique stores, flea markets, and garage sales (with an occasional treasure from a bookstore).

I love the rhythm and sound of the older English language, and am blessed by other believers who have gone before me!

"A never-failing maxim is here proposed, "Hope in God," trust in God, believe in God: for I am sure, and all of you that know Jesus Christ are persuaded of it, too, that all our troubles arise from our unbelief...

Put your trust in God: hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him.

The devil tells me my trouble is so great, I shall never lift up my head again; but unbelief and the devil are liars...

God will carry me through it all...

I tell you, O Satan, that God who I have been so vilely tempted as to believe has forsaken me, will come over the mountains...My unbelief shall not make his promises of none effect...

I shall praise him...'the health of my countenance, and my God...'

...thus faith will get the better in a saint."

(From "Daily Reading by George Whitefield" by George Whitefield, c. 1714-1770)

(A listing of books and authors, and also dates of individual postings from those books, will be found on my "QUAINT WORDS" page)

BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"

"FAN THE FLAME" FRIDAY - Foolishness

Welcome to "Fan the Flame" Friday.

This is a weekly post that will be "short and sweet" (kinda like me...)

Just a word and a phrase, a sentence or a question...just a little something to "fan the flame"of your creativity!

Today's word: foolishness

Why do you think God chooses to use the world's foolishness to reveal His wisdom?

Why do you think some people cling to the message of the cross, while others think it is foolishness?

Let me know what you think!!

"This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you…For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline." (2 Timothy 1:6-7)

BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"

HEY, WHAT ABOUT ME?

Today I’m speaking…to a group of young mothers.

My topic?

"Whatever Happened To Me?"

I figured since I had a few years on them – OK, a few decades on most of them (and thanks for noticing that!) – I probably had some wise words to pass on.

Well, words anyway.

I'm going to be sharing with them seven key areas that I think are necessary in developing and maintaining our identities throughout the "Mom Years."

I figured I could speak to this issue because I can still remember what it felt like being a young mother. I'm not so old that I can’t remember when my sons were little.

Mom memories stretch long – and they live in your heart forever!

And I truly believe that I am facing some of the same challenges as an "Empty-Nester" that I faced as a mom of young children.

I have grappled with some of the same issues – asked myself some of the same questions. Have I disappeared? Who am I at this stage in my life? What do I need?

So, as I explored this topic, here’s what I came up with:

1. We need PERSONAL TIME. Time for ourselves. Time to be alone. And

we need to search for God in quiet moments.

2. We need to spend time with other PEOPLE. We need to foster

friendships, not just acquaintances. And we need to look for God in our

relationships.

3. We need to have PATIENCE. We have to practice slow and steady. And

we must ask God to give us a persevering spirit that endures.

4. We need time to PLAY. To enjoy life, to learn the gift of laughter. And we

need to find God's joy in the simple things of life.

5. We need to PRESERVE memories and traditions. Record them for the

future. And we must seek God’s wisdom as we let go of what doesn’t

matter, and hold on to what does.

6. We need to pursue our PURPOSE, and explore our passions. And we need

to let ourselves find meaning in who God created us to be.

7. And finally, we must never underestimate the power of PRAYER. We

can’t let anything fool us into thinking that God doesn’t care. He does,

more than we’ll ever know.

He is faithful. He is always there, and ever near.

For God is the anchor that keeps us safe and secure through the storms of motherhood, and He is the beacon who will lead us through the perils and challenges of life.

And when we cry out in frustration and despair, "Whatever happened to me?"

He has an answer.

"You’re right here. In the shadow of My wings. In the palm of My hand. And I will never, ever leave you or forsake you. I know you by name – you are Mine!"

Which of these seven areas do you need to develop the most at this point in your life?

(P.S. – My apologies to any of my male readers – I'd have to say that you need these things in your life, too!)

BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"

DRESSING UP

Then the angel showed me Sharon standing before the angel of the LORD.

Lord, here I am – standing before You alone – with nothing to show for myself.

The Accuser, Satan, was there at the angel’s right hand, making accusations against Sharon.

Lord, how the enemy hates me! He says the most awful things against me. But, Lord, here’s the truth. His accusations are true. I am unrighteous.

And the LORD said to Satan, "I, the LORD, reject your accusations, Satan. Yes, the LORD, who has chosen Sharon, rebukes you."

Really, Lord?! YOU stand in my defense?

"This woman is like a burning stick that has been snatched from the fire."

Oh yes, Lord. I’m a smoky mess. Singed with sin, sooty with ashy living. It is only in Your mercy that I am not consumed.

Sharon’s clothing was filthy as she stood there before the angel.

I hang my head in shame.

So the angel said to the others standing there, "Take off her filthy clothes."

What?? I look up tentatively…

And turning to Sharon he said, "See, I have taken away your sins, and now I am giving you these fine new clothes."

Oh, Lord!! I am so undeserving of Your grace! How I thank You for the gift of salvation! I am a new creation, indeed!

(Scripture taken from Zechariah 3)

"Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life…Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God – truly righteous and holy." (Ephesians 4:21-23)

BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"

HOOP DREAMS

Ever had a big dream?

Well, I had one when I was a little girl – and it came true! Let me tell you about it…

When I was about five years old, we lived in a suburb of San Francisco. My dad worked in the city. He rode a commuter train, every day, for all those years of working. Late in the afternoon, my mom and I would go pick him up…

I can vividly remember parking on the street, next to a store. (By the way, we always parked in the direction we were going to head home). Then there was a large vacant dirt lot that stretched from the side of the building to the train tracks.

So, I would plant myself in the back seat, and look out the back window – waiting for the train to arrive.

When it chugged in and came to a stop, there was always that moment of anticipation…

And then a virtual ocean of men would flood out of the doors. They marched like a battalion of brown and black ants.

I would excitedly look for my dad.

He was usually pretty easy to find. At 6’ 3” tall – he literally was head and shoulders above most of the crowd!

This was a great moment, every day – but on this particular day, it was something extraordinary…

For weeks I had been daydreaming, pining, nagging about a certain toy that I just HAD to have – a HULA HOOP!

It was all the rage – and I was raging to have one.

I think my parents told me they couldn’t afford to buy it. Sigh…

So, this particular day, I'm scanning the masses just like before – when all of a sudden, there in the middle of the crowd…

NO!

It couldn’t be, could it??

A large, red circle was bouncing along – it was…(cue choir music here)…a

hula hoop!

THAT was pretty exciting in itself – but can you imagine how *excited* I was when I realized that the arm holding it above the crowd belonged to my dad!!

And that meant…

That hula hoop was MINE!!

Oh, what a thrill that was – getting the hula hoop, for sure – but also realizing that my dad had taken the time out of his workday, gone to a toy store, bought the crazy thing, then negotiated it on that train all the way home to me…

It spoke of love.

You know what this story reminds me of? I'm still a little girl inside. And I'm still daydreaming about a certain thing that I just HAVE to have…

Heaven.

I am eagerly watching the sky for my Savior's return. Anticipating His arrival. Excitedly scanning the clouds. Waiting for the triumphal shout…

He's coming, all right.

And He's bringing the one gift that I’ve longed for my whole life.

Eternity.

He's taken the time to purchase it. He bought it with His life. He's carefully negotiating me through this life, all the way home…because He loves me.

He loves you, too – you just have to know that today – in the deepest part of your heart.

HE LOVES YOU.

He's coming back – and He's bringing His reward!

"Don't let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father's home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am."

(John 14:1-3)

What’s the best childhood gift you ever got?

How do you feel about the incomparable gift of Heaven?

BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"